Description
JS Bach Cello Suites Volume 1 for Alto Flute
JS Bach Cello Suites Volume 1 for Alto Flute
Tetractys Publishing
Arranger: Carla Rees
Bach’s Cello Suites arranged for solo alto flute
Volume 1
Contains Suites 1-3
N.B. A separate version is available for bass/C flute
Difficulty: Grades 3-8+ approx
Durations: 16, 18 & 20 mins approx
Programme Notes by Carla Rees
Arrangements of one kind or another have been at the heart of alto flute repertoire since Boehm’s own arrangements of well-known works at the time of the instrument’s development in the mid-1850s. For an instrument that lacks its own repertoire before the mid-nineteenth century, adapting earlier works provides both useful practice material and a broader range of musical material.
This adaptation of the Cello Suites is formed from studying various printed sources, including facsimiles of the four versions of the composer’s manuscript, with slight modifications made to suit a single-line instrument and the idiosyncrasies of the alto flute. Articulations are based on those found in the source material but may be altered to suit the interpretation and requirements of the individual player, as is commonly the case with performances by different cellists. Double stopping has been represented by grace notes, which may be allowed more time or omitted altogether depending on the skill and tastes of the performer. Where two notes appear simultaneously in the score, this is to indicate a possible ossia for instruments with a B (F sharp) foot joint, and players of the standard alto flute should always follow the upper notes.
Inevitably, breathing is a challenge when playing music originally conceived for strings on the alto flute, and I have decided not to include suggestions for breath marks to allow greater flexibility for the individual player. However, I would recommend that the more difficult breathing passages can be used to help build stamina and develop greater breath control, and are ideal for use as studies.
Versions are available for alto and bass flute, transposed to ensure that the Suites remain in the original key. The bass flute version may also be performed on a C flute. Carla Rees July 2012
Johann Sebastian Bach
J. S. Bach was a German composer and musician of the Baroque period. A renowned harpsichordist and organist, he composed over 1000 works, enriching the German musical style through his skills in counterpoint and harmony. Some of his most popular works include Air on the G String, Goldberg Variations, Brandenburg Concertos, The Well-Tempered Clavier, Toccata and Fugue in D minor, and many more. Bach’s adaptation of rhythms, forms, and textures took influence from abroad, particularly in Italy and France.
He also wrote a number of outstanding solo, chamber and concerto works for flute.
Bach is regarded as one of the greatest composers of all time.
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Johann-Sebastian-Bach
Carla Rees-Composer/Flautist
An experienced arranger and prize-winning composer, Carla’s catalogue of works have received performances in the UK and internationally, including at flute conventions and festivals in the UK, Slovenia, Costa Rica and the USA.
If you have any queries, please call us on 020 7388 8438 (UK) or +44 (0)20 7388 8438 (International)
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